referencing standards

Referencing standards are established rules that guide how to properly cite sources of information in writing or research. They ensure clarity, consistency, and credibility by providing a specific format for listing references, such as books, articles, or websites. Different fields often have their own standards, like APA, MLA, or IEEE, which specify details like order, punctuation, and elements to include. Following these standards helps readers locate original sources easily, gives proper credit to authors, and maintains integrity in scholarly and professional work.